As Loughs Agency marks Invasive Species Week, the pressing need for heightened awareness and collaborative efforts to mitigate the impact of these species becomes increasingly evident. Invasive non-native species pose a major threat to the delicate balance of the ecosystems in the Foyle and Carlingford catchment areas.
Over the last fifty years, human activity has led to a sharp increase in global travel, resulting in more opportunities for plants and animals to be moved across the world. Additionally, climate change is expected to influence species distributions by affecting potential species ranges.
Characterised by its yellowish/brown shell with distinctive ridges, the Asian Clam is a freshwater bivalve which impacts on our native aquatic systems as a result of its rapid rates of reproduction and its filter feeding activity. Asian clam disrupts native ecosystems, displacing native filter feeding species like the critically endangered freshwater pearl mussel.
There are multiple pathways through which a potential invasive species can be introduced into a new environment, with introductions being accidental or deliberate. The consequences of these introductions are often unpredictable, and the impacts of INNS on native habitats can be complex and devastating, leading to ecological changes, economic losses, and social impacts.
Japanese Knotweed: Originally introduced as an ornamental plant, Japanese Knotweed now infests various habitats, including riverbanks, choking out native species and exacerbating soil erosion
Aquatic habitats are particularly at risk from invasive species, as water provides ample opportunity for species to disperse through interconnected aquatic systems. Aquatic INNS tend to be well adapted to spread naturally in aquatic systems, and human activities such as recreational and commercial use of water also aid in the dispersal of aquatic INNS.
Himalayan Balsam's uncontrolled growth presents a significant ecological hazard. Its tendency to outcompete native plants and spread seeds downstream exacerbates erosion and disrupts river ecosystems.
The recognition of these issues during Invasive Species Week serves as a reminder of the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address this growing concern and protect our native habitats from the impacts of INNS.
Several invasive species have established a foothold in the Foyle and Carlingford catchment areas, increasing the need for proactive measures. Notable among these are:
Asian Clam: Characterised by its yellowish/brown shell with distinctive ridges, the Asian Clam is a freshwater bivalve which impacts on our native aquatic systems as a result of its rapid rates of reproduction and its filter feeding activity. Asian clam disrupts native ecosystems, displacing native filter feeding species like the critically endangered freshwater pearl mussel.
Giant Hogweed: Giant Hogweed sap contains agents that cause severe skin inflammation when exposed to sunlight. This raises concerns for both public safety and the integrity of ecosystems.
Himalayan Balsam: Himalayan Balsam's uncontrolled growth presents a significant ecological hazard. Its tendency to outcompete native plants and spread seeds downstream exacerbates erosion and disrupts river ecosystems.
Japanese Knotweed: Originally introduced as an ornamental plant, Japanese Knotweed now infests various habitats, including riverbanks, choking out native species and exacerbating soil erosion.
Pink Salmon: Pink Salmon threaten indigenous salmon populations through competition for resources and transmission of parasites.
In response to the threat of INNS, Loughs Agency urges public vigilance and proactive engagement. If encountered, individuals are encouraged to record sightings, refrain from disturbing the species, and promptly report findings to the Agency.
Sharon McMahon, Loughs Agency Chief Executive, said: “Invasive species continue to arrive and threaten our wildlife and ecosystems, so it is imperative that preventative actions are taken to avoid further spread and introductions.
“Through a shared commitment to awareness and collaboration, we can ensure the protection of our freshwater ecosystems for future generations."
Further information on what Loughs Agency is doing to combat invasive species can be found at loughs-agency.org.
